Embodying death metal in all its frenzy, categorical nihilism, and unabated will to power, Sarpanitum come from out of nowhere to stake a Cinderella story claim to the genre throne, virtually nothing lacking in their regimented package of all-around chops, craftsmanship, and pulverizing execution. Just where in the hell are all these fully formed bands coming from anyway? Perhaps I answered my own question there. There must be some serious woodshedding going in the likes of Birmingham (England, not Alabama, although that could be interesting in its own right), as the chops on display here are that of weathered veterans rather than the new kids on the block.

Sarpanitum have actually had their foot in the door since 2003 but are just now getting around to put out an album, despite having toured with some of the genre heavyweights. With _Despoilment of Origin_ they've taken their time and really nailed it to the fucking wall. Like an amalgamation of Nile and Cannibal Corpse, with balls-to-the wall pacing and a Mesopotamian lyrical bent, the emphasis is less on texture and fleshed-out nuances rather than full bore, clenched fist aural assassination. "Dusk Over Assyria", the album's only concession to pit-weary mosh fiends, is merely an acoustic bridge across twin chasms of relentless sonic effrontery.

Elsewhere nothing is left from the resultant carnage aside from unrelenting, juggernaut rhythmic work outs and pulse pounding, roiling blast beats. Currently black sheep to the inner circle of the death metal elite, Sarpanitum have shorn themselves of all excesses save the sheer concept of excess itself. Nonetheless, anyone with the foresight to consider themselves a fan need hardly worry about being fleeced in their own right.